Coatesville Loses One of Its Own in Last Week’s Tragedy Near Rittenhouse Square

Coatesville lost one of its own last week, when Sean Schellenger, a 1999 graduate of Coatesville High School, was stabbed to death on July 12 during an altercation near Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia.

Schellenger, 37, was a resident of the Point Breeze section of the city and was described by many as a rising star in real estate development.

As the owner of Streamline Solutions, Schellenger’s commitment to the community was evident, as he was said to organize turkey giveaways and Easter egg hunts.

“He would talk about being a part of the community and connecting with people on a personal level, not just wanting to come to the neighborhood to try and make a profit,” said City Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, who was a friend and neighbor to Schellenger.

“He had big aspirations,” Kevin Baird, also a developer in Center City, told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “Something about him told you he wasn’t going to give up until he succeeded. He was different. I’m deeply saddened by his untimely death.”

Before Schellenger became a star in real estate, he was a star on the wrestling mat and on the football field. For his prowess as a wrestler, he is slated to be inducted into the Coatesville Area High School Sports Hall of Fame in October.

Schellenger also played briefly as a quarterback at Penn State.

A memorial service was held in his honor this week at Radnor High School, where Schellenger’s father, Mark Schellenger, was once a principal.

“Sean is my hero and always will be,” Mark said.

“Sean could make anyone family,” said his uncle, Jeff Schellenger.

Schellenger’s mother, Linda Schellenger, told those who gathered in her son’s memory that he “had zero places in his heart for hate. This is who we all need to be.”